Johnston and Marble Canyon Winter Tour from Canmore

Two frozen canyons in one morning, with the gear and guidance to walk safely on ice

A winter hiking tour from Canmore that combines Johnston Canyon and Marble Canyon in Kootenay National Park, with hotel pickup, ice cleats, poles, warm drinks and national park entry fees included. The route covers the Lower Falls and Upper Falls at Johnston Canyon, then crosses into British Columbia to explore Marble Canyon's dramatic winter landscape. Total time is five to six hours, including travel and a guided hike on icy trails.

Step-by-step itinerary

Winter hike and canyon exploration

• Pick up from hotel
• Hike Johnston Canyon with ice cleats
• View frozen Lower and Upper Falls
• Enjoy warm drinks during travel
• Visit Marble Canyon in Kootenay National Park
• Traverse Marble Canyon trails
• Return to Banff, Canmore, and Harvie Heights

The experience

How do you hike frozen waterfalls without slipping? This tour handles the logistics: you get picked up from your Canmore, Banff or Harvie Heights hotel and travel in a spacious van with an English-speaking guide. At Johnston Canyon, you'll put on ice cleats and grab hiking poles, both included, then follow elevated walkways along the icy trail to the Lower Falls, where winter transforms the canyon into a landscape of ice sculptures and snow-covered cliffs. The route continues upward to the Upper Falls for views most visitors never reach.

After the hike, the tour stops for warm drinks (hot chocolate, tea or coffee), before heading into Kootenay National Park across the British Columbia border to Marble Canyon. This section is quieter than Johnston Canyon and carved by centuries of glacial melt into dramatic, deep chasms. You'll traverse the canyon and spend time taking in the winter scenery before the van returns you to your hotel. National park entry fees are already paid, so there's no stop at a gate.

What’s included

• Hotel pickup from Canmore, Banff or Harvie Heights.
• ice cleats and hiking poles.
• warm drinks including hot chocolate, tea and coffee.
• national park entry fees.
• English-speaking guide throughout the tour.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 10:00Last departure this season: 31 Oct

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 3 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical levelInfant seats availablePets welcomePublic transport nearby

Operated by Explore Banff Tours & Transfers

Is this one for you?The hike itself is moderate and the walkways keep you from scrambling on loose rock, but five to six hours on icy trails in winter cold demands steady legs and comfort in cold weather. Book this if you're ready to move at a steady pace in winter conditions, not if you prefer short strolls or indoor attractions.

Traveler reviews

5.00★★★★★★★★★★

1 verified traveler review

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24h before the start.

What's the hike like at Johnston Canyon in winter?

Johnston Canyon's winter hike follows elevated walkways along an icy trail to the Lower Falls, then continues upward to the Upper Falls. Ice cleats and hiking poles are provided, and the route showcases frozen waterfalls and ice formations carved into the canyon walls.

Is Marble Canyon worth the extra drive?

Marble Canyon sits in Kootenay National Park just across the border in British Columbia and is less crowded than Johnston Canyon. The canyon features deep, dramatic chasms shaped by glacial melt, and the winter landscape offers a different perspective on the region's geology.

What should I wear for this tour?

Dress warmly in layers. It's a winter hike at elevation. Bring waterproof gloves and insulated boots. The tour provides ice cleats and poles, but you'll need your own outerwear and footwear rated for snow and ice.

Does the tour include lunch?

Lunch is not included, but warm drinks (hot chocolate, tea and coffee) are provided during the journey between the two canyons. Plan to eat before or after the tour.

How much walking is involved over the five to six hours?

The total time includes hotel pickup, travel between sites, and time at each canyon. The actual hiking is moderate in pace. The tour is designed for travelers with at least moderate physical fitness, and the elevated walkways at Johnston Canyon reduce exposure to steep terrain.